Gastric Sleeve

Gastric sleeve surgery involves removing the outer portion of the stomach, creating a smaller, tube-shaped stomach. This primarily restricts food volume. Gastric bypass creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connects it directly to the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach. This affects both food volume and nutrient absorption. The two procedures alter the digestive system in fundamentally different ways. The appropriate choice depends on an individual's specific health profile, which is assessed during the consultation.

During a gastric sleeve, a significant portion of the stomach is surgically removed from the body. That tissue does not grow back. The remaining stomach, or sleeve, is a smaller functional organ. It is living tissue and can stretch over time if large volumes of food are consumed consistently. The procedure also removes the main area that produces the hunger hormone ghrelin, which affects appetite signals. The effectiveness of the surgery is maintained by adhering to new eating habits.

The procedure is performed laparoscopically, which uses several small incisions in the upper abdomen rather than one large one. A thin tube with a camera and specialised instruments are inserted through these points. The exact number and placement of the incisions are determined by the surgeon based on the individual's anatomy and the specifics of the operation. This approach allows access to the stomach with less disruption to the surrounding tissue.

The final size of the sleeve is not a standard measurement; it is customised for each person. During the operation, the surgeon uses a calibration tube, or bougie, as a guide to form the new stomach. The diameter of this tube helps ensure the sleeve is neither too tight nor too loose. The surgeon tailors the sleeve's dimensions based on the patient's original stomach anatomy and structure. The goal is to create a functional tube that provides appropriate restriction for that individual.

All gastric sleeve procedures are performed in a fully accredited, multi-disciplinary hospital in Istanbul. The specific hospital is named in the detailed treatment plan provided before any travel arrangements are made. The surgical team includes the specialist surgeon and LIN Europe Clinic's own anaesthetist. An interpreter is present from the consultation through to the hospital stay to ensure clear and accurate communication between the patient and the medical team at every stage.

For the consultation, it is helpful to gather any relevant medical documents. This includes a complete list of current medications, vitamins, and supplements. Information about previous abdominal surgeries is particularly important. A summary of your weight history provides valuable context. Also prepare to discuss any health conditions related to weight, such as high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, or diabetes. This information helps build a complete picture of your health.